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Citroën C3 1st generation 2001

Citroën C3 1st generation 2001

Its inspiration? The surprising "C3 Lumière" supermini concept car unveiled in 1998. Its credo? Rounded lines, freshness and optimism. Its success? Immediate following its launch in late 2001! More than two million first generation C3s, in many variants, are sold. Not a bad performance!

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A fresh wind blows in new ideas for small saloon cars! In 1998, the C3 Lumière dazzles the public by its roundness, smile and fluidity. A genuine concept car, for it invites sunlight into the car via its windows of impressive size, including a panoramic roof.
With this optimistic approach, reminiscent of the legendary 2CV and as surprising as it is explosive, Citroën enters a period of reinvention of its small saloon cars, starting with the first C3 showcased at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2001. Encouraged by public appreciation of the initial concept, the company adds something more energetic and proposes this car in a range of variants. It introduces the clever Stop&Start system as standard equipment, a world premier! The success continues up until the release of a second generation in late 2009.